Bordeaux

Yesterday, Meri and I took a day trip to the lovely city of Bordeaux. I wasn't sure what to expect from the city because I knew that there was a fierce rivalry between Toulouse and Bordeaux. The Toulousains feel that the people from Bordeaux (no idea if there is a better word to describe them) are too bourgeois and think they're better than everyone. I'm sure that the Bordelais (I just googled what they're called) think that the Toulousains are way too "southern." Nonetheless, I was ready to explore the city and make my own decision!

After a two-hour train ride we arrived in Bordeaux. The city has an extensive tram network, so we hopped on and went towards the centre ville. The architecture of Bordeaux is definitely on the bourgeois side - but in a good way. It's SO beautiful. Bordeaux is a pristine example of French architecture. Despite the bipolar rain, the city still looked gorgeous and we had an awesome time exploring all of the different areas. We even climbed up (231 steps) to the top of a tower to get a panoramic view of the city. The best part about it was that we got to come face to face with some pretty gnarly gargoyles. Did I just say gnarly? Oh well it fits.

We climbed to the top of that thing!

We had an amazing lunch at a café that Meri's semi-helpful guidebook recommended. If you're ever in Bordeaux definitely go to it: Le Cheverus Café. We spent the afternoon really just wandering around the city. We didn't have a plan, which for once in my life I actually enjoyed! We shopped, had a coffee break (another great place in Bordeaux: Books & Coffee), explored the cathedral, and drank a ton of wine. What else are you supposed to do in Bordeaux? After eating lots of delicious food, we got on the train and headed back to Toulouse. What we thought would be a relaxing two hour trip ended up being ridiculous because there were homeless people trying to hitch a ride on our train.. They almost made it to Toulouse and then were kicked off. After an hour and a half. Oh France.